Continuing his advice to Henri Tempier, as he visits each Oblate in Eugene’s name, he deals with two difficult persons. In each case, he looks for the good and the possibilities of growth in each one – and the necessary correction to achieve the growth.
Again, show him that he is loved, but also make sure that he observes the Rule:
Letter to Henri Tempier, 16 July 1829, EO VII n 333 |
-
Recent Posts
Recent Comments
- Eleanor Rabnett, Lay Oblate on WEDNESDAY OF HOLY WEEK: IN THE DAILY PRESSURES OF OUR ANXIETY AN INEXHAUSTIBLE TRUST IN GOD’S GOODNESS
- Mildred March on A SUMMARY OF TEN YEARS OF OBLATE MINISTRY
- Eleanor Rabnett, Lay Oblate on FAITH-FOCUSED INVESTMENT GROUPS: A PRESENCE WHERE DECISIONS AFFECTING THE FUTURE OF THE POOR ARE BEING MADE (Rule 9a)
- Eleanor Rabnett, Lay Oblate on VIVAT: A PRESENCE WHERE DECISIONS AFFECTING THE FUTURE OF THE POOR ARE BEING MADE (Rule 9a)
- Eleanor Rabnett, Lay Oblate on WE SHOW A VERY HUMAN FACE OF JESUS TO THE WORLD, ONE FULL OF COMPASSION AND SOLIDARITY (Rule 9a)
Archives
Meta
-
What do I do with this I ask myself.
As I read this I reflect on how flexible and how open Eugene and the Oblates were to those who felt called to try and live this specific way of life. Their own personalities were not beaten out of them, but still they were called and asked to surrender themselves. And just as the Oblates opened themselves to others. those wishing to be a part of the Oblate Family had to open themselves to a specific way of living, to a specific Rule of Life. The word ‘communion’ comes to mind.
This Rule of Life that seems to resonate within me. In the past few months it has been a part of my daily reflections; it has danced before me, touched me, seduced me. I have told myself that I would wait until I see my spiritual director but this morning it has again confronted me and I need to acknowledge – to myself at least how I am drawn to this quite specific way of living, not as a priest or a brother, not as a religious sister, but rather as I am called to live as a lay person.
I remember 35 years ago arriving at the doorsteps of Madonna House – the place and people there though welcoming and loving terrified me – especially the founder Catherine. There was not a moment that passed when I did not want to run away as far as possible – it was terrifying to have to face that love and all that went with it. I was stubborn and I did not want to fail at anything (as I felt that I had failed with life most miserably until then) and so I made myself stay – saying that I would not fail again and that if they wanted me to leave they would have to tell me to go – I put it on them. Not the best of reasons for staying and being there but it did work out. They, like Eugene and the Oblates were with Bro Ricard and with the odd fellow Biallez, were firm but loving and when the time came for me to go I did.
My spiritual director accompanies me, suggests, affirms, prays and walks with me, but only I can say yes to this invitation. I have grown up a little since then and have learned to take responsibility in my life. I do not do this blindly, or on my own, but I will do it, with the help and direction of others around me.